Washington Product Liability Blog

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Bloomberg is reporting that dangers and defects in electronic cigarettes could form the basis for product liability lawsuits if they are more damaging to human health than their manufacturers claim. Citing a report by Swiss Re Ltd. (the world’s second biggest reinsurer), Bloomberg reported that a the insurance world is concerned about the risk that e-cigarettes may cause death, much like their tobacco counterparts. The Swiss Re report stated: “E-cigarettes are often marketed as a less harmful alternative to tobacco. Some health experts claim that e-cigarettes are useful for people trying to quit or cut down on nicotine, although no peer-reviewed study has proven such benefits. Their long-term health effects are not yet known since they have not been on the market long enough. Concerns focus on e-liquids, the key ingredients in e-cigarettes, which are powerful neurotoxins. When e-liquids are ingested or absorbed through the skin, they can cause vomiting and seizures and can even be lethal. Toxicologists warn that e-liquids pose a significant risk to public health, particularly to children. They also represent a serious workplace hazard for those preparing and selling them if proper precautions are not taken (e.g., wearing gloves while mixing e-liquids).”